Charcot's joint, multiple sites

This code describes a chronic, progressive degenerative arthropathy affecting multiple joints, resulting from nerve damage (neuropathy) that leads to loss of sensation and repetitive microtrauma. It is characterized by joint destruction, deformity, and instability, often associated with underlying conditions like diabetes or syphilis.

Use this code when documentation specifies Charcot's arthropathy affecting more than one distinct anatomical site. This diagnosis is typically supported by clinical findings of joint destruction, neurological deficits, and imaging studies confirming neuropathic changes in multiple joints.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "multiple sites" or lists more than one affected joint to support this code.
• Always code the underlying cause of the neuropathy (e.g., E10.40 for Type 1 diabetes with neurological complications) first, if known.
• Do not use this code for Charcot's joint affecting a single site; refer to the M14.6- subcategory for site-specific codes.